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Kickers Fall To Crystal Palace

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Richmond Kickers News Release -- www.richmondkickers.com

Monday, July 28, 2014

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers fell to Crystal Palace of the English Premier League 3-0 on Monday night in front of a record-setting crowd of 7,851 at City Stadium. The match marked the end of Crystal Palace’s tour of the United States, and goals from Peter Ramage, Glenn Murray, and an own goal saw the visitors end their trip on a winning note.

The game got off to a slow start, and Richmond enjoyed its fair share of first-half possession, and some success down the right side.

Richmond would have its first chance of the game in the 19th minute. A long ball was played forward in the direction of forward Jason Yeisley. The ball was dangerous enough to bring Palace goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey off his line, and he collided with Yeisley, but the Kickers foward found himself with the ball after the scramble only to put his shot into the outside of the left side netting.

Richmond’s best chance of the half would come in the 22nd minute when a Sascha Görres pass sprung George Davis IV down the left. Davis’ cross found Matt Delicâte outside the six-yard box, and the Kickers' leading goal-scorer’s powerful header missed just to the right.

Crystal Palace nearly took the lead in the 32nd minute on a Dwight Gayle shot. Yannick Bolasie carried the ball down the left side before finding Gayle inside the six-yard box. Gayle’s effort hit the inside of the left post, and bounced along the goal line before being cleared by Görres.

Palace would strike two minutes later on a free kick by Jason Puncheon, however. Richmond midfielder Luke Vercollone could not clear Puncheon’s ball away, and Ramage capitalized as he beat the goalkeeper with a determined header.

Richmond tried to find their answer in the 45th minute when Hugh Roberts found Samuel Asante down the right side, who eluded Mile Jedinak and used his newfound space to cut a ball to Davis IV at the top of the box, but his shot was deflected over the bar by a defender.

Palace’s final chance of the half came in stoppage time. Puncheon found Bolasie to the left of the penalty spot, and Bolasie’s low shot was pushed away by Richmond goalkeeper Ryan Taylor, and Gayle couldn’t get his foot on the rebound.

Palace carried its momentum into the second half, and its first chance to add to its lead came in the 51st minute. Puncheon danced to the end-line before delivering a dangerous ball into the six-yard box. The cross connected with Richmond defender William Yomby in the air, who nearly headed the ball into his own net.

On the subsequent corner, Crystal Palace found its second when Puncheon’s corner found a soaring Murray, formerly of the Wilmington Hammerheads, whose header beat the goalkeeper to his left.

Richmond nearly pulled one back in the 59th minute when Yeisley found Juan Arbelaez down the right wing. Arbelaez found Tishan Hanley in the penalty area, but Hennessey denied his low driven shot to the left post with a finger-tip save to preserve his clean sheet.

Palace netted third in the 69th minute on a cross from substitute Barry Bannan, whose ball was headed by Marouane Chamakh and deflected off Yomby and into the net.

Richmond’s best chance of the half came on a shot by Yeisley in the 80th minute. Asante sent a ball over the defense that Yeisley chested around Adrian Mariappa. Yeisley’s shot rattled the woodwork and wide for a goal kick.

Richmond’s final chance to avoid the shutout came in the 86th minute when Hanley received a goal kick and beat three defenders to the byline before sending in his cross. The cross beat Hennessey but Yeisley’s diving header whistled just wide left of the target.

The Richmond Kickers take on the Wilmington Hammerheads this Friday, August 1 at Legion Stadium before returning to City Stadium to host the Charlotte Eagles on Saturday, August 9.  Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. and tickets are on sale now at RichmondKickers.com


Bauque Called Up By Mozambique

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Harrisburg City Islanders News Release -- www.cityislanders.com

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- Harrisburg City Islanders' forward Clesio Bauque has been called up to compete for his native country Mozambique in the second round of African Cup of Nations qualifying. Mozambique will play the second leg of a two-game series with Tanzania after the clubs finished in a 2-2 draw on July 20th in Maputo, Mozambique -- 19 year-old Bauque's birthplace --  on August 2nd. The winning side will advance to the qualification group stage, where they would participate in Group F.

Bauque will suit up in the nation's red and black for the sixth time in his young career. The electrifying forward has recorded two goals for Mozambique, both at the age of 16, one being the lone goal in a 1-1 tie against Tanzania in the 2013 African Cup of Nations qualification, and the other in World Cup qualifying during a 4-1 rout of Comoros.

Bauque, known for his exciting play and flamboyant celebrations, notably his backflips, has recorded three goals and one assist in 774 minutes of USL PRO play. He also notched one goal and one assist in the 2014 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, both against the Lehigh Valley United Sonic in the second round.

Bauque joined the Islanders for the 2014 season after playing the 2013 season with Portuguese club, S.L. Benfica. The thrilling forward signed his professional contract with Benfica in September of 2012. During his time with Benfica, Clesio appeared in nine matches and netted two goals, participating in both reserve and first team matches for the Portuguese club.

The Islanders return to action on Wednesday night when they will take on the LA Galaxy II at Skyline Sports Complex. For tickets and information on Wednesday's match and all 2014 City Islanders' matches visit CityIslanders.com or call 717-441-(GOAL).

Greig Named Player of the Week

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USL PRO News Release

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

TAMPA, Fla. – USL PRO named its Team of the Week for Week 19 of the 2014 season on Tuesday as OKC Energy FC forward Kyle Greig was named Player of the Week. Greig recorded three goals and an assist as Energy FC claimed four points from a pair of road games against Harrisburg and Dayton.

Greig helped OKC earn a point last Wednesday in a 3-3 draw against the City Islanders. After falling into a two-goal deficit, in the opening half-hour, Greig scored twice to put his side ahead before the halftime break, but Energy FC’s hopes of victory were dashed when fellow Team of the Week selection Pedro Ribeiro of Harrisburg scored his second goal of the game with six minutes to play to level the score.

Greig’s goal and assist on Saturday against the Dutch Lions would lead to victory, however. The former Wilmington Hammerheads forward opened the scoring three minutes before the halftime break in Dayton, and then provided the assist for Paul Wyatt’s goal early in the second half as Energy FC moved into seventh place in the league standings.

Charleston’s Dane Kelly joined Greig in the Team of the Week attack as his two goals earned the Battery a 2-0 win against Arizona United on Saturday night, while Jose Angulo’s hat trick against the Real Salt Lake Reserves in a 5-2 win led to the Pittsburgh Riverhounds’ standout’s selection.

Ribeiro was joined in the Team of the Week midfield by Sacramento Republic FC’s Rodrigo Lopez, who had two goals and an assist in his side’s 5-0 win against Pittsburgh on Sunday night. The LA Galaxy II’s Andre Auras also earned selection after his first goal of the season gave Los Dos an early lead in their victory against Orange County, while Richmond’s Luke Vercollone continued to feature strongly for the Kickers as they claimed four points and moved closer to Orlando at the top of the standings with a 2-1 win against Harrisburg on Saturday.

Rochester Rhinos center back Patrick Slogic led the defensive selections as he and his teammates bottled up Orlando’s attack in their 1-0 victory on Sunday afternoon. He is joined by Harrisburg’s Matt Bahner, who had two goals and an assist in the City Islanders’ two contests last week, and Charlotte’s Ben Newnam, whose opened goal keyed the Eagles’ 2-0 win against Wilmington on Saturday night. Richmond’s Joe Willis was selected as goalkeeper as he made 10 saves across two games to extend the Kickers’ undefeated streak to 18 games.

The USL PRO season continues on Wednesday night as the Harrisburg City Islanders welcome the LA Galaxy II to Skyline Sports Complex. Friday night brings a key game between long-time rivals the Richmond Kickers and Wilmington Hammerheads at Legion Stadium, while Saturday’s schedule is highlighted by a key clash in the playoff race as OKC Energy FC hosts the Orange County Blues FC at Pribil Stadium.

Every game of the 2014 USL PRO season can be seen live on YouTube, with live updates also available via Twitter (@USLPRO), Facebook and Google+. Stay up to date with news, previews and match reports from throughout the league via USLPROSoccer.com.

USL PRO Team of the Week

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Honorable Mention – Arizona: Evan Newton, Paolo DelPiccolo; Charleston: Jarad van Schaik, Colin Falvey; Charlotte: Jorge Herrera, Alec Kann; Dayton: Guilherme Felix; Harrisburg: Robbie Derschang, Yann Ekra; LA Galaxy II: Chandler Hoffman, Brian Rowe; Oklahoma City: Max Gunderson, Paul Wyatt; Orange County: Seung Ju Kim; Orlando: Darwin Ceren; Pittsburgh: Rob Vincent; Richmond: Sascha Görres, Jason Yeisley; Rochester: Colin Rolfe, Levi Houapeu; Sacramento: Thomas Stewart, Jake Gleeson; Wilmington: Quillan Roberts, Paul Nicholson.

PDL All-League Team Announced

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PDL News Release

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

TAMPA, Fla. – The PDL announced its 2014 All-League Team on Tuesday, with a pair of players from the Michigan Bucks and FC Tucson leading the selections. The 2014 PDL All-League Team was selected through a vote of team management.

The Bucks, who host this weekend’s 2014 PDL Championship presented by Nike, are represented by the league’s Golden Boot winner Dzenan Catic and midfielder Zach Steinberger. Both key figures in the Bucks’ Central Conference-winning side, Catic led the league with 16 goals, while Steinberger was a consistent force in the center of the side’s midfield as Michigan claimed the Great Lakes Division.

FC Tucson midfielder Ricardo Velazco and goalkeeper William Thompson were both integral to the first division title in club history. Velazco, a standout at the University of Louisville, led Tucson’s attack with seven goals and also recorded four assists. Thompson, meanwhile, finished in the Top 10 in the PDL in goals-against average, shutouts and wins and minutes, and recorded a 0.825 save percentage in a standout season.

Other notable selections included the Fresno Fuego’s Jose Cuevas and Des Moines Menace’s Chris Hellman, who were two of the three winners of the PDL’s assists title this season. In addition to Catic and Steinberger, standout Kitsap Pumas defender Cory Keitz will also be part of this weekend’s championship as he leads the Western Conference champions into action.

The 2014 PDL Awards Finalists will be be announced on Wednesday. The award winners will be announced at Saturday’s Championship Luncheon, part of the 2014 PDL Championship in Pontiac, Mich.

Both semifinals and the championship game at the 2014 PDL Championship presented by Nike will be streamed live on the PDL’s YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/USLPDL), with live updates also available through the league’s official Twitter account (@USLPDL).

2014 PDL All-League Team
GK – William Thompson, FC Tucson
D – Yair Hernandez, Laredo Heat
D – Nolan Intermoia, Thunder Bay Chill
D – Cory Keitz, Kitsap Pumas
D – Ramon Martin Del Campo, San Jose Earthquakes U-23
M – Jose Cuevas, Fresno Fuego
M – Zach Steinberger, Michigan Bucks
M – Ricardo Velazco, FC Tucson
F – Dzenan Catic, Michigan Bucks
F – Anthony Grant, Seacoast United Phantoms
F – Chris Hellmann, Des Moines Menace

Hammerheads Add Porter To Staff

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Wilmington Hammerheads News Release -- www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

WILMINGTON, N.C. – The Wilmington Hammerheads and the Capelli Sports Group are pleased to announce appointment of Carson Porter to the position of Technical Director of the Wilmington Hammerheads/Capelli Sports. Porter joins the Hammerheads after spending the past 3 years as a Technical Advisor and National Staff Coach for the United States Soccer Federation. In his role at U.S. Soccer he helped scout, manage and oversee the United States Development Academy, a league run by U.S. Soccer that aims to provide a platform for the top youth players in the U.S. to compete.

Porter also served as an assistant coach for the U-14 and U-15 U.S. Youth National Teams, and most recently has spent the last year as the assistant coach with the U-18 Men’s National Team. In his role with U.S. Soccer he has travelled extensively, gaining great experiences in international tournaments throughout the world. He most recently was part of the staff that took the U.S. U-18 team to an international tournament in Lisbon, Portugal where they competed against Sweden, Norway and Portugal. 

Prior to his time with the U.S. Soccer Federation, Porter was involved in the college game. His most successful stint came as the Assistant Coach at Wake Forest from 2004-2008. During his time at Wake Forest the team went to three consecutive College Cups (2006, 2007, 2008), winning the NCAA National Championship in 2007. For his work at Wake Forest, Carson was honored in 2008 as the National Assistant Coach of the Year by the NCAA. 

Porter will help and support the first team staff, working directly with Head Coach David Irving and General Manager Jason Arnold on player personnel decisions, club philosophy, curriculum and the planning of training sessions. He will also work with the youth club in a supportive role as the partnership aims to provide the best soccer experience possible for the youth of Wilmington. 

Porter, who is originally from Charlotte, N.C., played college soccer at the University of North Carolina from 1997-2001. He returns to North Carolina after working for U.S. Soccer in Denver, Colo. and New York.  He is married to Jenna Porter, who is also originally from Charlotte, N.C. 

To read more on Carson Porter and his role with the club, visit the Hammerheads blog online.

For further information regarding Wilmington Hammerheads FC, call (910) 777-2111 or visit www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com. 

PDL Award Finalists Unveiled

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PDL News Release

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

TAMPA, Fla. – The PDL announced the finalists for the 2014 PDL Awards on Wednesday, with the nominees for the league’s Most Valuable Player, Young Player of the Year, Goalkeeper of the Year and Coach of the Year set to be announced at Saturday’s Championship Luncheon, part of the 2014 PDL Championship in Pontiac, Mich. The 2014 PDL Awards were selected through a vote of team management.

A trio of players who led their sides to division titles are nominated for the League’s Most Valuable Player award. The Michigan Bucks’ Dzenan Catic, who claimed the league’s Golden Boot honor with 16 goals this season, leads the finalists. He is joined by fellow All-League selections Anthony Grant of the Seacoast United Phantoms, who had 14 goals and finished second to Catic in both goals and points, and the Des Moines Menace’s Christopher Hellman, who finished tied for the league lead in assists with seven and also recorded nine goal as his side won the PDL regular season championship.

Three All-League selections are also nominated for the league’s Young (U-21) Player of the Year Award. Standout defenders Yair Hernandez of the Laredo Heat and Ramon Martin Del Campo of the San Jose Earthquakes U-23 are joined by FC Tucson captain Ricardo Velazco, who led his side to the Mountain Division title with seven goals and 18 points.

Velazco’s teammate with FC Tucson, William Thompson, heads the nominees for Goalkeeper of the Year after a stellar season that saw him finish in the top 10 in the PDL in goals-against average, shutouts, wins and minutes and record a 0.825 save percentage. Reading United’s Alex Bono is also nominated after taking All-Eastern Conference honors after recording a 0.700 goals-against average and posting five shutouts, as is the Austin Aztex’s Devin Cook Perales, who was named to the All-Southern Conference Team after leading the PDL in minutes, posting a 0.793 goals-against average and finishing tied for the league lead with 11 wins.

Two coaches who have led their teams to the 2014 PDL Championship presented by Nike are among the four nominees for Coach of the Year, as the Michigan Bucks Demir Muftari and Jersey Express’ Jeff Matteo and their sides get to face off in Friday’s semifinals. Des Moines Menace coach Michael Jeffries is also nominated after leading his side to the PDL regular season championship, and the quartet is completed by the West Virginia Chaos’ Chris Grassie, who presided over the club’s first postseason appearance in its 11-year history.

Both semifinals and the championship game at the 2014 PDL Championship presented by Nike will be streamed live on the PDL’s YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/USLPDL), with live updates also available through the league’s official Twitter account (@USLPDL).

2014 PDL Awards
Most Valuable Player                                   

Dzenan Catic, Michigan Bucks
Anthony Grant, Seacoast United Phantoms
Christopher Hellmann, Des Moines Menace

Young Player of the Year
Yair Hernandez, Laredo Heat
Ramon Martin Del Campo, San Jose Earthquakes U-23
Ricardo Velazco, FC Tucson

Goalkeeper of the Year
Alex Bono, Reading United AC
Devin Cook Perales, Austin Aztex
William Thompson, FC Tucson

Coach of the Year
Chris Grassie, West Virginia Chaos
Michael Jeffries, Des Moines Menace
Jeff Matteo, Jersey Express
Demir Muftari, Michigan Bucks

W-20 All-Tournament Team Announced

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W-20 News Release

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

TAMPA, Fla. – W-20 announced its 2014 Championship All-Tournament Team today, with tournament MVP Lulu Haider of Michigan PDA leading the selections. Michigan PDA, which defeated the Grand Rapids Crew Juniors 4-3 in extra time to take the title Sunday at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla., had five players honored.

Joining Haider on the All-Tournament Team are two other Michigan PDA players who earned individual honors. Goalkeeper Caitlyn Clem earned the Safe Hands Award after posting a 1.22 goals-against average in the four games, while forward Brittany Timko earned the Golden Boot after scoring five goals in four matches. The final Michigan PDA selections are defender Joanie Sieja and forward Kelly Sweeney, who tallied four goals in the tournament.

The Crew Juniors had four players named to the all-tournament team, highlighted by the defensive pair of Allie Rossi and Gina Maddi, who held opponents to one goal in three games leading up to the final. They are joined by midfielder Marti Corbi, who orchestrated the Grand Rapids offense, and midfielder Madi Morgan, who finished with two goals and an assist.

Rounding out the team are midfielders Courtney Cash of Triangle FC Alliance and Abby Downey of the Washington Spirit Academy.

W-20 All-Tournament Team

GK Caitlyn Clem Michigan PDA
D Gina Maddi Grand Rapids Crew Juniors
D Allie Rossi Grand Rapids Crew Juniors
D Joanie Sieja Michigan PDA
M Courtney Cash Triangle FC Alliance
M Marti Corby Grand Rapids Crew Juniors
M Abby Downey Washington Spirit Academy
M Lulu Haider Michigan PDA
M Madi Morgan Grand Rapids Crew Juniors
F Kelly Sweeney Michigan PDA
F Taylor Timko Michigan PDA

Honorable Mention - Grand Rapids Crew Juniors - Didi Dedvukaj, Michaela Kovacs, Presley Tibbets; Michigan PDA - Ashley Henderson, Madi Lewis; Triangle FC Alliance - Grace Bondurant, Susana Zigante; Washington Spirit Academy - Bryce DeBolt.

 

City Islanders Pull Away From Galaxy II

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USL PRO Game Report

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- The Harrisburg City Islanders got second-half goals from Jimmy McLaughlin and Robbie Derschang as they defeated the LA Galaxy II 3-1 at Skyline Sports Complex on Wednesday night. The victory moved the City Islanders into a four-way tie for the eighth and final playoffs position with the Orange County Blues FC, Charlotte Eagles and Charleston Battery in the USL PRO standings.

Both teams came out positively to start the first half, but it was Harrisburg that took the lead in the 17th minute when forward Pedro Ribeiro found midfielder Jamiel Hardware, who scored from just outside the penalty area. The ball flew just out of reach of LA goalkeeper Cody Laurendi and gave the Islanders a 1-0 advantage.

Harrisburg played more aggressively in attack in the first half, outshooting the Galaxy II 5-2. The City Islanders had a chance to double their lead in the 31st minute when Morgan Langley took a hard, wide-open shot from close range, but Laurendi was there to make the save. The Galaxy II then found an equalizer five minutes before the halftime break when Jack McBean saw an opportunity to set up Rafael Garcia, who sent a hard shot to the bottom-left corner of the net from 15 yards to level the score.

The City Islanders regained momentum at the start of the second half, and went close to regaining the lead on an attempt by Ribeiro in the 51st minute that went over the crossbar. Three minutes later, however, Harrisburg would got back on top as McLaughlin broke in on goal after a good pass from Yann Ekra, outran the LA defenders, and shot from the left side of the net through the legs of the advancing Laurendi to give Harrisburg a 2-1 lead. 

The City Islanders defended their lead well, but the Galaxy II had a chance to level the score again in the 83rd minute when Chandler Hoffman got some space and took a shot that hit the inside of the left right post and bounced away to safety. The City Islanders secured the victory three minutes later when Neil Shaffer found Derschang in space on the left on a counter-attack, and the rookie sent home a low shot to the right corner for a 3-1 lead. 

The City Islanders return to action on Saturday night as they visit the Dayton Dutch Lions FC at 7 p.m. ET. The side then returns home on Wednesday, August 6th to square off against the New York Red Bulls Reserves at 7:30 p.m. ET. The Galaxy II continue their trip to Pennsylvania on Saturday night as they face the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Saturday night at 7 p.m. ET.


Kickers Lose Kalungi for Season

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Richmond Kickers News Release - www.richmondkickers.com

Thursday, July 31, 2014

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers announced that Henry Kalungi will miss the remainder of the season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament and medial collateral ligament. 

The veteran defender suffered the injury following a collision during the club’s international friendly against Crystal Palace on Monday, July 28.  He will undergo surgery with Dr. David Nedeff of OrthoVirginia within the next month.

“All involved with the club are extremely disappointed for Henry to sustain this injury,” commented Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Director of Soccer.  “We know he will dedicate himself to rehab and are confident that he will return in time for next season.  We wish Henry a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing him on the field again soon.”

Kalungi has started 128 of 135 games played with the Kickers over the past six seasons, logging nearly 12,000 minutes while contributing to 58 shutouts. 

Named team captain in 2012, he has anchored one of the league’s best defensive units en route to the 2009 USL PRO Championship, 2010 USL PRO Finals, 2011 U.S. Open Cup Semifinals and 2013 USL PRO Regular Season Championship title.  Captain of the Ugandan National Team, he has earned 15 international caps since 2011.

Hammerheads Set to Welcome Kickers

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Wilmington Hammerheads FC News Release - www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com

Thursday, July 31, 2014

WILMINGTON, N.C. – Wilmington Hammerheads FC welcomes the Richmond Kickers to Legion Stadium at 7:30 p.m. Friday for the final match of a three-game regular season series. Neither squad has been able to secure victory in the previous two meetings.

The Hammerheads (6-3-8) and Kickers (11-1-9) played to a 2-2 draw in June at City Stadium after a pair of Hammerheads goals late in the second half countered a pair of first-half goals from Richmond’s Matthew Delicâte.

Two weeks later the Kickers traveled to Wilmington for their second matchup, which ended in a 1-1 tie after Tom Parratt leveled the score in the 60th minute.

The Hammerheads enter Friday’s match following a 2-0 loss at Queens Sports Complex against the Charlotte Eagles last weekend. The defeat was the third for the Hammerheads this season as they sit in sixth place in the USL PRO table while having played the fewest number of matches in the league.

As the race for a playoff berth continues, the Hammerheads have a tight schedule ahead of them with a cross-country road trip and a make-up match versus Orlando City looming.

Up next for Wilmington are the Dayton Dutch Lions on Saturday, August 9 for the annual ‘Pink Out’ match at Legion Stadium in support of the local organization, The Pink Ribbon Project. Fans can bid on the pink jerseys worn by the Hammerheads players during the match online at www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com from Monday, August 3 until Friday, August 15.

U.S. U-20s Led by W-League Standouts

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W-League News Release

Thursday, July 31, 2014

TAMPA, Fla. – The U.S. squad for the 2014 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup will feature nine current and former W-League players when it opens play against Germany next Tuesday, August 5, at Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton. Alberta. The U.S. will also face Brazil (August 8) and China PR in Group B play.

Highlighting the list of W-League talent included in former Seattle Sounders Women Coach Michelle French's squad are five players who featured during the 2014 season, including Dayton Dutch Lions midfielder Rose Lavelle, who finished with seven goals and two assists. Also included are a pair of three-year W-League veterans in Andi Sullivan of the Washington Spirit Reserves and Nickolette Driesse of the North Jersey Valkyries.

Two of the younger players on the squad are midfielder Carlyn Baldwin and defender Kaleigh Riehl, who helped the expansion Braddock Road Stars Elite reach the Northeastern Conference title game this season. Defender Brittany Basinger (Spirit Reserves) and forward Makenzy Doniak (LA Blues) both saw action during the 2013 season as there teams met in the W-League Semifinals last July.

French is expected to rely heavily on a pair of former All-W-League forwards including the University of Florida's Savannah Jordan, who starred with the Atlanta Silverbacks in 2013, and Lindsey Horan of the Colorado Rush, who has already made two appearance with the full U.S. Women's National team.

For more information on the 2014 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, visit www.fifa.com/canada2014.

Rochester Faces Battery Friday

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Rochester Rhinos News Release - www.rhinossoccer.com

Thursday, July 31, 2014

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - The Rochester Rhinos will host Charleston Battery at 7:35 p.m. ET Friday in Sahlen's Stadium. The Rhinos enter the match in fifth place in the USL PRO table with 30 points from 21 matches after winning two of their past three matches.

Charleston will enter the match in 11th place with 24 points from 20 matches. The match could provide a six-point swing as Rochester could pull nine points clear of the Battery with a victory, or fall to within three points of the 2012 USL PRO champions with a loss.

Last time out the Rhinos defeated defending USL PRO champions Orlando City 1-0 at Sahlen's Stadium on Sunday. It was the first defeat of the season for the Lions, and ended Orlando City's 18-match unbeaten run. Colin Rolfe scored the game-winning goal off of an assist from Levi Houapeu in the 31st minute for the home side. The goal was Rolfe's fifth in all competitions including goals against D.C. United and New England Revs in the 2014 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

The Rhinos defense limited Orlando City to five shots in the match, and rookie goalkeeper John McCarthy made two saves for his eighth clean sheet of the season. The victory was the first in 10 tries for Rochester against Orlando City.

“Last Sunday afternoon was definitely a big result for us,” Rhinos head coach Bob Lilley said. “We hadn't gotten a result for a couple of games, so the standings were starting to get a little tight. It wasn't our first big result – we've also defeated D.C. United in the [Lamar Hunt] U.S. Open Cup. We've actually been good this season when we've needed a result. Now it's about showing that consistency week-in and week-out even when we don't feel like it's a 'must-win' situation.”

The Rhinos got the result against Orlando City with two important attacking pieces out of the lineup. 2012 Rhinos Most Valuable Player JC Banks left Rochester's 1-0 home loss to Wilmington on July 19 with a concussion after 73 minutes, and was ruled out for last Sunday's match. Alex Dixon has not played since he left the Rhinos 3-0 victory against the FC Dallas Reserves in the 70th minute with a high ankle sprain on July 11. The two attacking catalysts have combined for nine goals and four assists. Both players face fitness tests to determine their availability for the match on Friday night.

After a 4-0 loss against the Richmond Kickers on the road on July 19, the Battery are now unbeaten in their past three matches. The Battery played to a 1-1 draw with the Kickers in Blackbaud Stadium on Tuesday, July 22 before defeating visiting Arizona United SC 2-0 on Saturday, July 26. A 1-0 victory against the Impact Montreal FC Reserves on Monday gave the Battery seven of their last nine points. Dane Kelly had the brace against Arizona United SC, and now has four goals this season for Charleston.

Rochester defeated Charleston 1-0 in Sahlen's Stadium on Sunday, April 27. Banks scored the only goal in that match off of an assist from Rhinos captain Tyler Rosenlund in the 19th minute for the home side. McCarthy made two saves on two shots faced for the clean sheet.

Rochester visits Blackbaud Stadium for its third and final match of the season with the Battery on August 15.

Bucks Set To Host PDL Championship

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Michigan Bucks News Release -- www.buckssoccer.com

Friday, July 31, 2014

PONTIAC, Mich. -- The Michigan Bucks have had an award-winning season so far, but the prize they are focused on will be awarded on Sunday afternoon in the Bucks home stadium at Ultimate Soccer Arenas in Pontiac. The PDL powerhouse was selected to host the PDL Championship presented by Nike this weekend, which will see the Kitsap Pumas face the Ocala Stampede on Friday night at 5 p.m. ET in the first semifinal, immediately followed by the Bucks hosting the Jersey Express at 7:30 p.m. ET. The semifinal winners face off in the 2014 PDL Championship Game on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET at Ultimate Soccer Arenas.

The Bucks have earned several individual awards this season for their stellar play, led by striker Dzenan Catic who finished the regular season with 16 goals and was awarded both the Golden Boot and Scoring Champion for the 64-team league across North America. Catic was joined by midfielder Zach Steinberger on the PDL All-League team, which consists of the top eleven players across the US and Canada. Within the conference, the pair was joined by defender Ken Tribbett, who garnered All-Conference honors as well. Steinberger became a two time All Conference player, as he also was selected last year.

On Saturday at the USL Awards banquet, the league will announce its end of season awards, and the Bucks hope to take home some hardware. Catic is nominated for PDL Most Valuable Player, while second-year head coach Demir Muftari is nominated for Coach of the Year. 

Perhaps the best award of all will be handed out on Friday, when the PDL will recognize longtime Bucks superstar and current camp director Kenny Uzoigwe with a special award for being the leading goal scorer in PDL history. Uzoigwe broke Tomas Boltnar's (Des Moines Menace) record of 76 goals when he scored twice against the Indiana Invaders on May 31, 2011 to give him 78 career PDL goals. Uzoigwe has scored an additional 14 goals, putting his current all-time record at 92 goals.

Uzoigwe started his PDL career with the Toledo Slayers in 2003 and after three seasons joined the Bucks in 2006 and has been with the home team ever since. The 6-foot-4 fan favorite scored some of the biggest goals in Bucks history, including a last-minute goal in Kalamazoo in 2006 that put the Bucks in the playoffs (where they would go on to win their only PDL Championship) and four phenomenal bicycle kick goals. Uzoigwe is a record six-time All-Conference selection (2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010) and was selected to the PDL All-League Team on two occasions (2007, 2010).

While Uzoigwe had limited action with the Bucks this season due to work commitments, the 36-year-old continues to seek his dream of playing for the Bucks next season and getting to 100 goals scored, a threshold that will most likely stand forever in the PDL. 

Bucks Director of Coaching Gary Parsons hopes all the young fans that have worked with Uzoigwe at Bucks camps over the years will come out to congratulate the star forward.  

"Kenny has been a model for what the PDL is all about and what the game of soccer is about," Parsons said. "Kids love this genuine young man who has a unique passion for the game and life itself. I have never seen a competitor who has destroyed teams at every level and seems to have never made an enemy. We appointed him Camp Director several years ago because of his great patience and love of the game that he passes on to the kids. This will be a special moment in Kenny's life and we hope all his fans will be there to share it with him."

Tickets for Friday's doubleheader will be $10 at the gate (all ages, 5 and under free). Discounted presale tickets are available until Friday afternoon for only $7 by visiting the Bucks web site at www.buckssoccer.com. Families can get an additional discount by ordering a family four pass, which allows a family of four to all three games- two on Friday and the championship match on Sunday- for only $25 ($80 value), while supplies last. 

The Bucks expect a full house on Friday night, so order your tickets online today. All tickets will be left at Will Call after 4 p.m. on Friday. For teams or coaches wishing to bring their group to the game, please contact Bucks Director of Operations, Sherwin Connell at 917-325-9345.

Van Druenen Steps Down In Dayton

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Dayton Dutch Lions FC News Release -- www.ddlfc.com

Friday, August 1st, 2014

DAYTON, Ohio – Dayton Dutch Lions management today announced that Sid van Druenen had elected to step down as head coach.

The Dutch Lions will be led for the remainder of the season by Assistant Coaches Jack Hermans and Catherine Gordon, after van Druenen stepped down on Thursday to focus his attention on the club’s Youth Academy.

"Sid has been with us for three years and is a big asset for both me and the club," Dutch Lions CEO Mike Mossel said. "Besides doing a great job coaching his youth teams he won the Championship with the Women's team last year and had a great part in earning us the 2013 USL Organization of the Year Award. We had a good start of the season with the Men's pro team but have been less successful throughout the season, especially at home.

"We both felt that we could finish the season but also that we needed to make some important improvements in the Youth Academy right now and that this would mean he needs more time to focus on the Academy to provide a quality product from the start. On the other side having a new face in front of the Men's pro team can also bring a spark to the team to finish the season in style. I am very pleased with Sid's commitment to the club and hope to have him with us for many years."

"This was a tough decision for me personally but I think it's the best decision for both me and the club," said van Druenen. "Assuring the quality of our Youth Academy is key right now and needs full attention. Improving our methods of communication and further develop the Academy will be the main focus points for me in the next weeks while starting up the new Academy season.

"I feel that it is better for the club that I spent all my time and effort to that instead of the Men's pro team. Besides the Youth Academy I will also be working on other projects like the DL CUP, Super Y, scheduling and partnerships with other local clubs such as Real Bellbrook. I am happy to stay with the club and to be able to focus on the Technical Manager role from now on."

The Dayton Dutch Lions FC host the Harrisburg City Islanders on Saturday night at 7 p.m. ET at DOC Stadium. For more details, visit www.ddlfc.com.

Bucks Rally Past Express Into Final

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PDL Championship Game Report

Friday, August 1, 2014

PONTIAC, Mich. – The Michigan Bucks rallied from a halftime deficit to take a 2-1 victory against the Jersey Express in the second semifinal at the 2014 PDL Championship presented by Nike on Friday evening at the Ultimate Soccer Arenas. Jersey’s Kene Eze had given his side the lead late in the first half, but Ken Tribbett equalized for the Bucks nine minutes into the second half before Zach Steinberger scored the winner inside the final 15 minutes.

The Express held the halftime lead thanks to Eze’s goal and appeared buoyed by the finish as they started the second half brightly and got onto the front foot in search of a second goal. That momentum was stopped in its tracks in the 54th minute, however, as the Bucks earned a free kick on the right side 30 yards from goal, and Tribbett headed home Tom Owens’ delivery powerfully at the far post to put his side back on level terms.

The goal appeared to lift the Bucks, who had given their home fans little to cheer about in the opening half. Michigan continued to push forward in search of the lead and came close with 20 minutes to go when a good piece of interplay at the top of the box set up Tribbett for a shot, but the Express defense closed down quickly and the partially blocked effort floated wide of the right post.

Eight minutes later, however, the Bucks found the game-winner. The chance was created by David Goldsmith, who sent a good pass into the left channel for Steinberger as he broke forward from midfield. The All-League selection controlled, pulled the ball onto his right foot and curled his finish into the right corner of the net. Jersey goalkeeper Matt Turner was able to get a hand on the effort, but wasn’t able to turn it around the post.

Jersey pushed forward late in search of an equalizer to send the game to extra time, and came close in stoppage time when a long throw-in found the head of Sylvain N’Guessan at the near post, but the flicked header was handled by his right post by Adam Grinwis. The 2012 PDL Goalkeeper of the Year stood strong as the Express sent crosses into the penalty area late, twice claiming well under pressure, and that allowed the Bucks to see out the victory and advance to Sunday’s championship game.

The first half saw fewer chances, as the game was tight early. Both sides found it difficult to work the ball through the midfield while passes aimed at stretching the defenses or getting attackers in behind either missed their range or saw the assistant referee’s flag raised for offside.

The Express created the first real moment of danger in the 17th minute when an angled cross into the right side of the penalty area forced Grinwis off his line to punch clear under pressure, but both goalkeepers weren’t seriously challenged in the opening 25 minutes.

Michigan threatened in the 26th minute from a free kick on the right, but the delivery was cleanly gathered by Turner in a crowd. The Express’ defense then held firm in the 37th minute when a good piece of play by Steinberger set up a shot for Tribbett from 25 yards, only for it to be blocked away to safety.

A minute later the Express grabbed the lead. A poor turnover in their own end by the Bucks was picked up by Eze in space, and the former Toronto FC MLS SuperDraft selection held off his defender well as he advanced into the penalty area and fired a clinical finish home from 15 yards.

Eze almost doubled the Express’ lead three minutes later as he again got into the left side of the penalty area, only to shoot wide of the near post. The goal seemed to give Jersey a lift as it confidently carried its lead into the second half as any crosses the Bucks sent into the penalty area were repelled. Tribbett’s header turned the tide in favor of the hosts, however, and Steinberger’s finish gave the Bucks the chance to claim their second championship in club history.


Rochester, Charleston Share Points

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USL PRO Match Report

Friday, August 1, 2014

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - The Rochester Rhinos and Charleston Battery split the points in a scoreless draw in Sahlen's Stadium Friday night. The Rhinos remained in fifth position in the USL PRO table with the result, while the Battery pulled one point ahead of Orange County, Charlotte and Harrisburg in the chase for the final playoff position.

The Rhinos are five points behind Sacramento Republic FC for fourth place, and five points in front of the Wilmington Hammerheads who are currently in sixth place. Both Wilmington and Sacramento have matches in hand on the Rhinos.

Charleston goalkeeper Odisnel Cooper made four saves and Rochester rookie goalkeeper John McCarthy made six saves as both earned clean sheets.

After a 15-minute weather delay pushed the kickoff back, both teams struggled to find their form and the  chances were few in the opening half.

The Rhinos recorded the first shot on goal of the match in the 52nd minute. Rochester captain Tyler Rosenlund had possession of the ball at the top of the box on the right side of the field and sent a pass wide to his right to Michael Garzi, who pushed forward down the flank. Garzi cut it back with his first touch and found right back Pat McMahon, who served a ball in from his supporting position on the right flank. McMahon's service found Minh Vu making a near-post run, and Vu's header was on frame but right at Charleston goalkeeper Cooper.

Two minutes later Rhinos left back Onua Thomas Obasi got around the corner on the left flank and blistered a service into the six-yard box that Cooper had to parry away.

Charleston created a half-chance at the other end in the 56th minute when Jose Cuevas served a direct kick from 45 yards out in the middle of the field into the Rhinos penalty area. Obasi won the first ball and center midfielder Alec Sundly headed the second ball to Quniton Griffith on the right flank. Griffith volleyed the ball on goal from 15 yards, and McCarthy punched Griffith's service away.

Rochester Head Coach Bob Lilley made two attacking changes in the 65th minute when JC Banks, who is now fully recovered from a concussion, and Levi Houapeu entered the match for Garzi and Vu. Battery Head Coach Mike Anhaeuser countered by introducing Zach Prince in the 67th minute and Dante Marini in the 71st.

Charleston had its best chance of the match in the 73rd minute. After McCarthy came off of his line to punch a Cuevas corner kick out of the Rochester penalty area, the visitors recycled the ball back out to Cuevas on the left flank. Cuevas served the ball into the Rhinos box at the penalty spot and McCarthy came aggressively off of his line for the second time to punch the ball with two fists, but his effort was hindered by the heavy traffic he ran into in the penalty area. McCarthy's clearance only came as far as the top of the box, where Battery striker Dane Kelly hit a half volley. McCarthy was able to recover his feet and shuffle back to his line before diving to his right to parry the ball away.

The Rhinos called Cooper into service in the 76th minute. Banks had the ball in the middle of the field and sent a pass to Rosenlund on the right flank. Rosenlund smartly held the ball and allowed Houapeu to overlap, playing him through, and Houapeu dribbled to the end line before driving a service into area from the right flank. The cross found the head of Bababar Diallo at the far post, and his header forced Cooper to dive to his right to parry the ball off the goal line to keep the match scoreless.

Chances continued to come at both ends. Kelly got on the end of a Battery cross into the left corner of the Rhinos penalty area, took a touch with his right foot and tried to bend the ball into the upper right corner of McCarthy's goal. Diallo was there to head Kelly's well-struck effort away.

The Rhinos had a corner kick at the opposite end in the 80th minute, and JC Banks' service to the far post found Diallo, who headed on goal from the top of the six-yard box. The Battery scrambled the ball away but only as far as Obasi at the penalty spot, who crushed a left-footed volley right at Cooper.

Half chances for the Battery from Marini, Mamadou Diouf, and Zach Prince did not trouble McCarthy and the game ended scoreless.

 

Sanchez�s Late Finish Lifts Kitsap

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PDL Championship Game Report

Friday, August 1, 2014

PONTIAC, Mich. – Jesus Sanchez scored in the 89th minute as the Kitsap Pumas took a dramatic 2-1 victory against the Ocala Stampede in the first semifinal at the 2014 PDL Championship presented by Nike at the Ultimate Soccer Arenas on Friday evening. Kitsap, the 2011 champion, had taken the lead late in the first half through Joaquin Rivas, but Lewis Hilton got Ocala back on level terms just before the halftime break, only for Sanchez to steal victory with his late finish.

The winning goal came from a Pumas corner kick from the left that was cleared by the Stampede defense. The ball came to Pat Kelly 35 yards from goal, and the midfielder advanced forward before taking a shot that deflected to Pumas defender Rene Dezorzi. The center back had the presence to find an open Sanchez on the right side of the penalty area, and the diminutive midfielder slotted his finish low into the right corner to send his side into massive celebration.

“I try to stay involved in the play as much as I can, that’s one of the attributes I feel like I bring, and Rene just laid it off for me,” Sanchez said. “If there’s one thing throughout the whole season we’ve found a way to win. Whether it comes down to the last minute, or if we’re down one or two goals, we’ve found a way to win, and we build on that.”

The Pumas opened the game brightly and Rivas twice went close to scoring in the opening five minutes. The first chance came from a free kick 25 yards out that Ocala goalkeeper Lex Craggs did well to turn around the left post, and the second on a clear chance from 15 yards that slid just wide after Rivas was found unmarked as a flicked header put him in on goal.

The Stampede’s first real opportunity arrived in the 10th minute as a long ball over the top found Karamba Janneh, but an excellent challenge by Kitsap All-League defender Cory Keitz denied the effort. Kietz was on hand again moments later to snuff out another promising Ocala move and then the Pumas got to work again in the attacking third, only for Sanchez’s shot to go just wide of the right post.

The pace slowed after a frenetic first 15 minutes, but as the half progressed Kitsap began to build pressure again on the Stampede’s defense. Tommy Catalano came close to giving his side the lead in the 39th minute as he found space on the left side of the penalty area, but his curling effort to the far post went just wide. Three minutes later, however, the Pumas had the lead as Rivas got possession in space in the right side of the penalty area and drove a low shot into the left corner of the net.

The goal appeared to have set Kitsap up with a halftime lead, but the Stampede hit back in spectacular fashion in the final minute of the half. After a foul 30 yards from goal, Ocala midfielder Lewis Hilton curled a tremendous free kick over the defensive wall and in off the left post that pulled the sides level as they went to the break.

The Pumas rebounded well after the break and had the better of possession as the game resumed. Ocala was dangerous on the counter-attack, though, and almost took the lead in the 57th minute when Hilton found space on the right side, only for Kitsap’s Trevor Jensen to make a last-gasp sliding challenge to block his shot. Janneh also had an effort blocked from 10 yards out seven minutes later, and Kitsap went close when Mike Chamberlain had a fine header tipped over the crossbar by Craggs.

Ocala continued to press as the second half wore on. Substitute Kyle Breitmeyer almost broke the deadlock in the 81st minute, only for a through-ball to be swept up by Kitsap goalkeeper Matt Grosey, and the Pumas charged down another effort by the Stampede less than a minute later.

Kitsap then pushed forward in search of a late winner, only for a half-chance that dropped to Kelly to be sent over the crossbar, and Craggs’ to claim a good cross intended for Chamberlain. In the dying moments before the game headed to extra time, however, Sanchez struck to give his side the chance at its second PDL Championship.

Kickers Top Hammerheads 3-1

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USL PRO Match Report

Friday, August 1, 2014

WILMINGTON, N.C. - The Richmond Kickers extended their undefeated streak to 19 games Friday night, defeating the Wilmington Hammerheads 3-1 at Legion Stadium. The win moved the Kickers within a point of Orlando City at the top of the USL PRO table.  

Forward Matthew Delicâte and midfielder Shay Spitz gave the Kickers a first-half lead and Samuel Asante added a third tally after the break before Wilmington midfielder Drew Ruggles pulled a goal back to avoid the shutout.

The Kickers claimed the advantage inside the first 20 minutes when forward Jason Yeisley launched a throw in into the box from the right flank.  A poor clearance pinged around the crowded box before shooting out to Luke Vercollone, who swept the ball back to Yeisley to deliver a lofted cross to Spitz lurking at the back post.  Collecting the well-placed service, the Kickers midfielder rifled a left-footed shot that rattled the crossbar before dropping at the feet of Delicâte, who punched it home from point-blank range.

Searching for the equalizer in the 34th minute, Hammerheads midfielder Sammy Ochoa latched on to a loose ball, turned his defender and slotted a leading ball through to Cody Arnoux.  Heavily marked, the Wilmington native squared the ball for an onrushing Paul Nicholson, who blasted a low, driven shot that whistled just wide of the left post.

Three minutes later, Wilmington defender Troy Cole served a long ball from the right touchline to Arnoux at the left corner of the box.  Settling the ball with one touch, he fired from 16 yards but Kickers goalkeeper Ryan Taylor was on his line and made the block.

Later, in the final seconds of first-half stoppage time, Kickers defender Sascha Görres drew a foul 35 yards out.  The veteran teed up the resulting free kick and delivered a curling, left-footed cross into the swarming six-yard box, connecting with Spitz who made no mistake, redirecting a flicked header past a lunging Quillan Roberts.

The Kickers increased their lead at the hour mark when a Wilmington throw-in deep on the right wing was cleared out to Asante, springing him free for an 80-yard fast break counter.  An unmarked Spitz raced after a leading pass and carried the ball into the box before splitting defenders and centering the ball for Asante, who calmly slotted it past a diving Roberts.

The celebration was short-lived as the home side responded six minutes later when Albert Edward received a short throw-in from Ruggles and played it back to him on the right edge of the box.  The Hammerheads midfielder bent a lofted ball to the far upper 90, catching Taylor off guard and tucking it just under the crossbar.

In the waning minutes of regulation, a give-and-go between second-half Hammerheads substitutes Marc Godelman and Brian Ackley freed Godelman to unleash a laser strike to the near post, but Taylor was not to be eluded a second time and parried it over the end line to send the Kickers home with all three points.
 

 

 

PDL Award Winners Announced

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PDL News Release

Saturday, August 2, 2014

PONTIAC, Mich. – The PDL announced the winners of the 2014 PDL Awards on Saturday afternoon, as the awards for the league’s Most Valuable Player, Young Player of the Year, Goalkeeper of the Year and Coach of the Year were announced at the PDL Championship Luncheon. The 2014 PDL Awards were selected through a vote of team management.

2014 PDL Award Winners

Most Valuable Player – Dzenan Catic, Michigan Bucks
Catic added the PDL Most Valuable Player award to his Golden Boot after a standout season that saw him score 16 regular-season goals to lead the Bucks to the Great Lakes Division title, and a pair of postseason goals to help the Bucks reach the PDL Championship. A former high school National Player of the Year, Catic spent time this preseason with Seattle Sounders FC before returning to Michigan where he shone alongside fellow All-League selection Zach Steinberger.

Young Player of the Year – Ricardo Velazco, FC Tucson
Velazco returned to Tucson for his second season this summer, and shone from the club’s opening game as he led the team with seven goals and four assists. The creative midfielder, who was named to the American Athletic Conference’s First Team for Louisville this past fall, led his side to its first division title and then to the Western Conference Championship Game.

Goalkeeper of the Year – William Thompson, FC Tucson
Coming off a season-ending injury to his college season with Loyola Marymount, Thompson proved he was back in top form as he finished in the Top 10 in the PDL in goals-against average, shutouts, wins and minutes, and recorded a 0.825 save percentage. Thompson, a 6-foot-6 former member of the LA Galaxy Academy, will return to the Lions after an outstanding summer that saw him help Tucson earn its first division title.

Coach of the Year – Michael Jeffries, Des Moines Menace
In his second season as the Menace’s head coach, Jeffries led the squad to its second regular-season championship, and first since 2002, as Des Moines finished the regular season with a record of 12-1-1. The former Dallas Burn head coach and Chicago Fire assistant built a squad that included All-League selection Chris Hellmann and All-Conference selection Ralph Lundy, while a stout defense conceded only seven goals in 14 games, which tied for the league’s best defensive record.

The 2014 PDL Championship Game presented by Nike between the Michigan Bucks and Kitsap Pumas will be streamed live on the PDL’s YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/USLPDL) on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET, with live updates also available through the league’s official Twitter account (@USLPDL). 

Republic FC Finds Late Winner

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USL PRO Match Report

Saturday, August 2, 2014

PEORIA, Ariz. - Sacramento Republic FC jumped into third place in the USL PRO standings with a 2-1 victory against Arizona United SC Saturday night at the Peoria Sports Complex. Second-half substitute Justin Braun scored the winner for Sacramento in the 78th minute after Arizona had battled back to equalize.

The win was Sacramento's league-best sixth on the road this season. Arizona is still alive in the USL PRO playoff hunt, but its chances of making the postseason took a serious blow as it sits five points back of the eighth and final playoff position.

After a scoreless first half, Sacramento Republic FC struck first in the 52nd minute when midfielder Rodrigo Lopez passed to the top of the box from inside the box on the touchline. Midfielder Jeffery Koval ran to the spot and hammered a low shot into the far post.

The goal and the introduction of second-half substitute Jon Okafor in the 62nd minute sprung new life into Arizona United SC, which equalized in the 64th minute. Joey Dillon played a through ball over the top to a streaking Okafor, who slashed into the box from the right wing and whipped in a low cross to Long Tan. Tan dummied the ball and watched it roll to an on-rushing Jonathan Top for a calm finish into the back of the net for his third goal of the season.

Seeking all three points, Arizona United SC missed out on the chance to capture the lead in the 70th minute on a Brad Stisser’s shot from the edge of the box that went over the crossbar by inches.

However, as Arizona United SC continued to push, Sacramento started to threaten on counterattacks and jumped out in front on an Arizona United SC turnover. Braun timed a perfect run and collected the ball in space inside Arizona United SC’s half. He cut inside, beating London Woodberry, and benefited from a Jalen Robinson challenge when the ball bounced forward into the box. Goalkeeper Evan Newton ran off his line to prevent the shot, but Braun extended his right leg and chipped the ball over an outstretched Newton.

With time dying, Arizona Head Coach Michael Dellorusso sacrificed a defender bringing on midfielder Sam Garza and pushed everyone forward for a final chance. The payoff worked as Okafor got a header on a cross, but it didn’t have enough power as Sacramento goalkeeper Jake Gleeson smothered the attempt.

“It was a huge result for us,” said Republic FC defender Emrah Klimenta following the match.  “I thought the team fought hard and we walked away with a good result.  We want to do our best to bring playoff games to Sacramento.  The city deserves it.”

 

 

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